Watamu is a small town 20 kilometres or so south of Malindi. The name translates into 'sweet people'. It lies between Watamu Bay to the north and Blue Lagoon to the south. The stunning Turtle Bay extends south from Blue Lagoon where it meets Mida Creek. Watamu town itself has grown from a small coastal village into a small ramshackle settlement of huts and buildings. The town has an accelerating growth rate due to the popularity of the area as a great holiday destination, with a growing economy and population.
Watamu beach stretches for about seven kilometres south to the mouth of Mida Creek. The north end of the bay is sheltered by an ancient coral headland - providing a natural harbour for vessels. Traditionally, dhows would ley anchor here, on their trade route north or so with with monsoon wind. Today, the bay provides shelter to modern sports fishing boats, glass-bottomed boats, and the occasional ngalawa or small dhow.
